The North County Times reports the San Diego Padres reached a minor-league contract agreement with P Joey Hamilton. He will attend spring training and be given an opportunity to make the major-league roster.

The AP reports St. Louis Cardinals P Jason Isringhausen (shoulder) will likely start the season on the disabled list. Isringhausen is still recovering from off-season shoulder surgery performed in Oct. 2002. Pitching coach Dave Duncan stated P Steve Kline would get first shot at the closing job if Isringhausen goes on the DL. Other pitchers who would be considered are P Joey Hamilton, P Al Levine, P Mike Crudale and P Russ Springer.